FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

What is the difference between marijuana and hemp plants?

Marijuana and hemp are two distinct varieties of the same plant species, Cannabis sativa, with unique phytochemical compositions.  The chemicals identified in cannabis are called cannabinoids.  The most commonly known compounds / cannabinoids are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the component that produces the “high” associated with marijuana use.  Hemp, or industrial hemp, has lower concentrations of THC and higher levels of cannabidiol CBD, which decreases or eliminates its psychoactive effects. 

At Branch Pharms, we are licensed to grow and process industrial hemp.


What is CBD?

CBD, the acronym for cannabidiol, is the second most prevalent active ingredient in the Cannabis sativa plant. This low-THC (.03% or less) derivative extracted from our hemp plants is used to manufacture Branch Pharms products. 


Is CBD legal? 

The 2018 Farm Bill legalized the cultivation of industrial hemp with a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana) concentration of no more than 0.3% by removing it from schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act.  All but three states have authorized the production, manufacture, retail sale and inspection of industrial hemp crops and products


How safe are your products?

A third-party laboratory tests our organic products, which ensures that they are free from any potential contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, yeast, and mold.  In addition, the purity and accuracy of CBD concentrations are analyzed.  The lab reports (hyperlink) for each batch are posted on our website for your review.

The FDA has approved only one CBD product, a prescription drug to treat two rare, severe forms of epilepsy.  

Please consult with your physician or health care provider before using any of our products regarding any medical health-related diagnosis or treatment options. 


What is the difference between full spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD oil?

Full spectrum CBD oil is extracted from the entire hemp plant (leaves, stalk and seeds) so it includes all cannabinoid properties, including legal trace amounts of THC (.03% or less) and CBD, to create an “entourage effect.”  Although, THC is present it will not get you intoxicated, or provide a “high sensation.”   

Broad-spectrum extracts contain multiple cannabinoids but does not include THC.  



How much CBD should I take daily?

Many people use CBD several times a day, or at specific times – it is merely a preference.  The common usage is 10 to 50 milligrams per day; however, this also depends on the product and purpose of usage.  For CBD oil tinctures, the range is usually 15 to 50 milligrams.


Can I take CBD with other medications?

It is strongly recommended that you consult with your physician or health care provider if taking prescribed medications.


Can I take CBD if I am pregnant or lactating?

Do not use if pregnant of lactating.